John L. Kent

International containership carrier selection criteria

Examines the difference in perceptions of 18 carrier selections factors between import shippers, export shippers, and international containership carriers. MANOVA was used to determine differences between the three groups. Suggests that there are significant differences between import shippers and carriers; export shippers and carriers; and import shippers and export shippers. Significant differences between the import shipper and carrier groups were found on the loss and damage and equipment availability factors. Significant differences between the export shipper and carrier groups were found on the rate changes, service frequency, financial stability, service changes, and equipment availability factors. The only significant difference between the import shipper and export shipper groups was found on the door‐to‐door transportation rates factor.

Mexican maquiladoras: helping or hurting the US/Mexico cross‐border supply chain?

Purpose – This study aims to report on the current issues facing the maquiladora industry in Mexico and the cross‐border supply chain and to present suggestions for improving the situation in the future.Design/methodology/approach – Phenomenological interviews were conducted with managers overseeing various aspects of the cross‐border supply chain. The resulting data were analyzed using a grounded theory methodology to uncover theoretical linkages.Findings – The results of this study show that maquiladoras experience many of the same problems as other companies in terms of managing the cross‐border supply chain. Key factors such as distance, comparative advantage, and integration of the workforce cause problems everyday for the managers involved.Research limitations/implications – This was an exploratory investigation of the issues with a small number of informants and future research needs to be done to gain additional insights. As North American Free Trade Agreement enters its second decade, and the foc...

The Perceived Importance of Statistics in the Logistics and Transportation Industry

Abstract In this article, we examine the quantitative skills necessary for entry-level managers to be successful in the logistics and transportation industry. A mail survey was sent to executives in ocean carriers, motor carriers, and third-party logistics companies. The responses indicated that statistics played either a critical or a supportive role in the operation of their companies. Sampling, graphics, probability, and quality methods were the most widely used statistical techniques. Among available software, the spreadsheet (Excel) was the top choice. We include suggestions for ensuring that appropriate statistical techniques are incorporated into an undergraduate statistical curriculum.